Cavendish shy about future as Girmay wins in Japan

Released: 02/11/2024 – 11:24

1 min.

Cavendish, 39, the Tour’s record stage winner with 35, is set to compete in the final race of his storied career next week in Singapore.

But last week he said he would “see” racing in the Tour de France next year, explaining that he “sees things a little differently” despite previously vowing not to race it again.

When asked if the Singapore race would be his last, the British driver replied: “I’m here in Saitama.

“I’m not here to talk about my future, I’m here to talk about Saitama’s criteria.”

Cavendish finished third in pouring rain in Japan after a furious finish that saw Eritrea’s Girmay beat Slovenia’s Primoz Roglic to the line.

Roglic, who won the Vuelta a España for a record fourth time in September, pulled away from the pack with 3km to go.

Girmay, who became the first African to win the Tour de France green jersey and score the most sprint points in this year’s race, finished ahead of Roglic and Cavendish, with Belgian Jasper Philipsen fourth.

“For me, this is one of the most satisfying endings,” Girmay said.

“I just went as hard as I could to the finish line.”

Fans lined the streets despite persistent rain in Saitama, north of Tokyo.

Ghirmay, who signed a contract extension with his Intermarche-Wanty team following success at the Tour de France, has received support from a small group of Eritrean fans.

“It’s always special when you win,” the 24-year-old said.

“It doesn’t matter if you win yesterday, if you win today, it’s always the best feeling.”

Spaniard Roger Adria did not finish after crashing with two other riders mid-race.

Australian Ben O’Connor withdrew early after crashing in the time trial.

© 2024 AFP